Thought that attending the orchestra was just for grown-ups? Think again! Because Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) has flung open the doors of the Concert Hall and made sure their performances are a place where everyone feels welcome, and so kids can go to the orchestra.
“We believe the power of live music is transformative, and we want people of all ages to be able to experience it,” says Warwick Adeney, Concertmaster. “We want to make it as easy as possible to bring your children, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, neighbours, and friends to experience the magic of a live performance.”
We’ve never been to the Orchestra before, what should we expect?
At QSO concerts, the Orchestra plays music created by composers that has been written for a large group—usually there are around 75 people on stage at once! Some of the music is really old, and some is brand new. In the hands of a great composer, orchestral music is just like a spectacular building or a famous painting.
Be on the lookout for one of the musicians who will introduce the concert from the stage and make you feel at home. They may even share their favourite part of the music, so your budding musicians can listen out for it. Be sure to grab a free concert program from the foyer, which includes a map of the orchestra, facts about the musicians performing, and an engaging listening guide to help you follow the music.
“Keep an eye out for our ‘Younger Ears’ section which will help even the littlest music lovers to understand the music they will hear,” says Huw Jones, QSO Principal Oboe. “If you’d like to read them before you arrive, you can head to our website and download a PDF in the week of the concert.”
Another way to learn about the music before you attend is to listen to QSO’s Spotify playlists.
“We have created a unique playlist for every concert so you can familiarise yourself with the music before you hear it performed live,” says Huw.
Is it expensive?
No! To make a trip to the Orchestra accessible to all families, QSO has introduced $30 tickets for those aged under 18.
How do I know if a concert will work for my kids?
QSO has created a helpful guide to Running Time and Recommended Age, so you can determine the most suitable concert for your family.
What if my child gets restless?
Never fear! If your kids grow fidgety during a concert, simply head to one of QPAC’s soundproof viewing rooms where you can enjoy the show without worrying. Ask an usher to show you where they are!
What do I wear?
This one’s easy—wear whatever you want! Some audience members love to dress up whilst others prefer to come casual.
Performance types
- Symphonies: Longer pieces of music for orchestra
- Concertos: Music for a solo instrument and orchestra
- Movie Music: The soundtrack to accompany on-screen action
- Ballet and Opera: Music to accompany on-stage action
- Chamber Music: Music for smaller groups of instruments
- Choral Music: Music for choir and orchestra
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